The bill aims to strengthen tenant protections under Washington State's residential landlord-tenant and manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant acts. Key amendments include prohibiting landlords from evicting tenants or terminating tenancies without cause, requiring at least 60 days' written notice for tenancy termination, and allowing tenants to rescind their notice to vacate before leaving. The bill also introduces specific requirements for eviction notices, such as a 30-day notice for nonpayment of rent, and establishes affirmative defenses for tenants related to landlords' failure to maintain properties. Additionally, it expands the definition of "cause" for eviction, necessitating written notice for various breaches and creating a rebuttable presumption against landlords who do not act in good faith.

Further modifications include the requirement for landlords to provide written warnings for multiple violations before eviction, and the introduction of provisions for tenants who misrepresent information on rental applications. The bill enhances tenant rights by allowing them to seek damages for wrongful eviction and mandates reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. It also outlines the process for repayment plans for unpaid rent, ensuring that tenants can propose plans based on their financial situation. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a fairer rental market by balancing the rights of landlords and tenants while ensuring clear guidelines for lawful eviction processes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 59.18.650, 59.20.080, 59.18.410, 59.18.380, 59.18.365, 59.18.630